Classic Coastal Garden Style

Gardening within close proximity to the coast brings about its own set of challenges. Sandy soil, salt air, fog and high winds, to name a few. But given you factor in the vagaries of the climate when designing your outdoor space, you can still create the idyllic garden of your dreams.

A coastal garden can be as varied as any garden, but you usually do find common elements. Ornamental grasses, hardy succulents, native wildflowers, driftwood and worn pebbles often make their way into the design of a seaside garden. The plants have proven they are worthy competitors, capable of enduring the abuse of a harsh climate, while the ornamental decor included is often gathered from shores nearby.

If you like the look of coastal gardens, but live inland, you can still experiment with this distinct style. Add clumps of ornamental grasses, a grey pebble path, decorative buoys draped across a fence, or use a large, ornate piece of driftwood to serve as a focal point. When executed properly, and without over doing it, elements from the coastal garden can blend into any garden setting.